A graphic novel is a novel that has pictures and words. The pictures are in sequential form and the words are usually written in speech bubbles and can also be written in a text box at the top of the picture or at the bottom of the picture. The speech bubbles are used for dialogue and the text boxes are used for narration. It looks like a comic book but in a larger book form. Some graphic novels have no words just pictures. Others have both words and pictures. Graphic novels usually are in a series and have many volumes to them. There are graphic novels that are fictional and non fictional. According to Dictionary.com graphic novel means a novel whose narrative is related through a combination of text and art, often in comic-strip form. Firstsecondbooks.com describes a graphic novel as, ‘Graphic novel’ is a word that describes a medium, not a genre: graphic novels can be histories (like George O’Connor’sJourney Into Mohawk Country); fantasies (like Joann Sfar’s Vampire Loves) or anything in between.
Anyone can create their own graphic novel. It takes creativity, inspiration, a story and drawing out the scenes no matter what the level of artistic ability someone has to write your own graphic novel. They are great to read and can be used in a classroom. They are great to use for differentiated instruction. Not only are graphic novels cool to look at but they are easier for some students to read. For those students who hate reading or are struggling to read, graphic novels may help them want to read. Graphic novels are good for all readers and all age groups.
